Swimming by Moonlight
Words by Lydia Paleschi
Recently, we’ve been swimming by moonlight. Eager to assess the logistics of swimming under the cover of darkness, we have discovered that it is an excellent option for those struggling to find time during the day. In fact, not only is it a practical solution to the limitations of the winter season, but it comes with additional thrills too! Fortunately for us, UK waters are much safer than those in other parts of the world, particularly when it comes to night-time predators. So, if you’re short on time, swimming by moonlight is worth considering.
Our moonlight swimming ritual
Heading to the beach in the dark feels like stumbling upon a secret that no one else is in on. As we step onto the sand, it’s rare to see another person and reduced vision makes our remaining senses come alive. With everything so quiet, the sound of waves lapping upon the shore seem monumentally louder than during the day. There is an ethereal quality to what we are doing and our local beach feels like a brand new place to be discovered. We often experience a giddy excitement, as we bring a pair of binoculars to our eyes, analysing the moon’s cratered surface whilst our vision adjusts to the dark. In these moments, we realise how unobservant we are and how little we know about the world.
Entering the water, wading in towards the moonlight feels different to our daytime swims. The texture of the water looks unusual, lit up in gold and silver rather than blue and green. The ocean seems even larger than usual and we feel even braver. As we swim, we take the time to lie on our backs and float. Experiencing a sense of weightlessness whilst fixing our eyes on the moon and stars makes us feel at one with nature. As we gaze out towards the Milky Way, we are brought into the present moment and realise how insignificant we are in the context of a limitless universe.
On the evenings of a full moon, a bright stream of moonlight beckons us further into the ocean. However, we never stray out of our depth. Not only is this for safety reasons, but there is an additional element of fear that comes with swimming at night. The removal of full vision activates our primal instincts to be afraid of the unknown. The slightest brush of seaweed puts our senses on edge and our imagination is fired up. A fear of that which lies below surfaces within us, but it is accompanied with exhilaration and awe.
Leaving the water, it is often colder than usual due to a lower air temperature than during the day. We dry off and throw our clothes on as quickly as possible, always coming prepared with a hat and warm coat. We enjoy how much quicker we can get changed in the dark, because there’s no one around and the visibility is too poor to worry about slipping a nip!
Swimming by moonlight leaves us feeling tired but satisfied.
As we gaze out towards the Milky Way, we are brought into the present moment and realise how insignificant we are in the context of a limitless universe.
How to plan a moonlit swim
Head for a moonlit swim either on the day of the full moon, or up to a few days either side of it. Even if it’s a full moon, it’s worth remembering that poor weather will have an adverse effect on the available light. Therefore, look out for when clear skies are forecast.
Much like planning a sunrise or sunset swim, it’s important to take the positioning of the moon into consideration. This will affect both where you swim and at what time. For example, if the moon rises from behind a headland, you would need to wait until later in the evening for it to be visible. Your best bet is to scout out your local area on an evening prior to when you are planning to swim. That way you will know what to expect.
Our top tips for swimming by moonlight
Swim at places you know well. Wild swimming comes with a range of risks. It’s important that you are prepared with local knowledge and an understanding of the risks before entering the water with reduced vision.
Avoid challenging conditions. We only swim when it’s completely calm at night. Even if you’re a competent swimmer, waves and rip currents can easily take you by surprise in the dark.
Swim in small groups of two or three. Swimming in small groups makes it easier to keep close tabs on one another and ensure no one gets into trouble. Make sure you can see each other at all times and never swim alone.
Stay within your depth and keep the shoreline within sight. Even if it is a full moon, unpredictable weather can lead to the moon being covered. Avert losing your bearings or long walks back to your belongings by knowing exactly where you are at all times.
Get changed quickly and to bring plenty of layers with you. It’s often colder at nighttime, particularly if it’s shortly before first light. Get warmed up as quickly as possible to avoid any discomfort.
Do not swim intoxicated. Swimming whilst under the influence poses huge health risks for both yourself and others.
If there isn’t enough light, don’t get in. Whilst it can be disappointing when conditions aren’t as planned, it’s never worth compromising safety. There is a window of several days a month for moonlight swimming, so if there’s a day where there isn’t enough light, return when conditions are better.
If you’re considering going for a moonlit swim, always remember to put safety first. If conditions aren’t optimum, wait for another day.
For a reminder of the risks that come with wild swimming, visit our safety page.
Remember that ultimately the decision to swim and the responsibility for the outcome is yours and yours alone.
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